A comparison of two elbow crutch designs on functional performance in elite football (soccer) players with amputation

Abstract

This study compares different measures of performance and participant preferences using two different crutch designs with elite footballers with amputation; a traditional elbow crutch and spring-assisted crutch. Seven male international athletes were randomly assigned to one of the crutch designs. Tests of speed and agility were performed one week apart. Participants completed a questionnaire regarding perceived pain, stability, fatigue, ease of use and crutch design preferences. Participants using the traditional elbow crutch were significantly (p < 0.05) faster in all tests (Illinois agility test, 3 cone agility test and 10, 20, 40 m sprints). A significant increase in perceived exertion was detected when using spring-assisted crutches (p = 0.03). Preferences were favoured to traditional crutch design for stability, ease of use, pain, preference using for soccer and on a daily basis. The findings of this study suggest significant differences in performance and user preference between traditional crutches and spring-assisted crutches. Participants using traditional crutches were significantly faster for all measures of speed and agility. Further research is needed to understand the reasons for these findings.

Keywords:

• sport
• mobility aid
• performance
• injury

Acknowledgements

We would like to thank Millenial Medical ® for their assistance with purchase of the crutches and the GB Amputee Football Team for their support with arranging the study. The purchase of the crutches was enabled through a charitable donation from a corporate sponsor that wishes to remain anonymous. Thank you also to Matt Seeley and Eleanor Tillett for their advice with the early draft of the paper.